Donovan May Return to Florida

GAINESVILLE - Billy Donovan is wavering on his decision to leave Florida for the Orlando Magic and is pondering a return to Gainesville, several sources confirmed.

Donovan resigned last Friday to take over the fledgling NBA franchise, where he signed a contract worth $27.5 million over five years. But the decision was made hastily, in part due to the Magic's desire to move quickly on their search. FOXSports.com first reported the news late Sunday night.

The Magic are reportedly trying to decide whether to let Donovan out of his contract.

It was Donovan's desire to return that apparently derailed former assistant and current VCU coach Anthony Grant's scheduled interview on Saturday.

Grant and Florida athletic director Jeremy Foley were scheduled to meet on Saturday, but the Richmond Times-Dispatch reported that a University Athletic Association plane arrived at the Richmond airport Saturday morning, but Grant never boarded the plane.

The report said four unidentified men spent time talking on their cell phones before the plane left about 45 minutes after its arrival. Grant, who was widely considered Florida’s first choice to replace Donovan, surprisingly issued a statement late Sunday night saying he has not been offered the vacant UF job.

Magic officials were said to be en route to Gainesville late Sunday night to talk with Donovan.

About the blog

Florida Gators, Florida State Seminoles, Miami Hurricanes and UCF Knights fans, welcome to the Sunshine State blog for all your news about your favorite college teams. It's written by the staff of the Tampa Bay Times. We invite your comments and participation.